What must individuals completing their postdoctoral supervision primarily focus on?

The primary focus of individuals completing their postdoctoral supervision should be on acquiring licensing qualifications. This stage is critical in a psychologist's career, as postdoctoral supervision is designed to provide further training and experience in a professional setting that is necessary for meeting the requirements for licensure. Supervision during this period typically emphasizes practical, hands-on experiences in clinical work, enhancing competencies under the guidance of licensed professionals, and ensuring that the supervisee is prepared to meet all legal and ethical obligations required by the state for practice.

While developing one’s own practice, conducting independent research, or engaging in teaching may be valuable pursuits at later stages in a professional career, they are not the primary focus of postdoctoral supervision, which is specifically aimed at preparing candidates to obtain their license to practice independently. The postdoctoral training phase is essential for consolidating the theoretical knowledge and clinical skills needed to meet the standards of the licensing board and ultimately serve the public in a professional capacity.